Sesame and Ginger Green Bean Salad

This green bean salad is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that is perfect for summer gatherings. The green beans are blanched until tender-crisp, then tossed in a tangy dressing made with rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, sugar, and salt. The salad is finished with a sprinkling of chopped peanuts for a bit of crunch. This salad is easy to make and can be served immediately or chilled for later.

Green bean salad is a classic summer side dish that can be found at potlucks and barbecues all across the country. This particular recipe is inspired by the flavors of Chinese cuisine, with its use of rice vinegar, sesame oil, and soy sauce. The ginger and sugar add a touch of sweetness and spice, while the peanuts provide a bit of crunch. This salad is a great way to use up fresh green beans from your garden, and it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 2 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound green beans, trimmed
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
3. Drain the green beans and rinse with cold water.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, sugar, and salt.
5. Add the green beans and peanuts to the bowl and toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Why It Works

• Blanching the green beans until tender-crisp helps them to retain their bright green color and crisp texture.
• The tangy dressing made with rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, sugar, and salt adds a delicious flavor to the salad.
• The chopped peanuts add a bit of crunch and protein to the salad.